Q. I've seen a few news stories recently about IPv4. Everyone is saying the Internet is going to "run out." What does that mean?
-Sandra from Gainesville, FL, listens to my national radio show on WSKY 97.3 FM

A. This is going to be a very technical discussion, Sandra, so hold on. The short answer is that the Internet isn't going anywhere. However, it will require a major upgrade soon.

Contrary to appearances, the Internet isn't a single, cohesive entity. It is actually made up of millions of computers. And these computers are all in continuous communication.

This communication relies on the Internet Protocol address. It is how all computers and electronic gadgets are identified on networks. Click here to learn what your computer's IP address reveals about you.

IP addresses are currently governed by Internet Protocol version 4 or IPv4. An IPv4 address looks something like this: "66.210.246.140." You usually don't see IP addresses, thanks to DNS servers. Learn how a custom DNS server can help keep your computer safe.